Auditions for “Marvin’s Room”

Audition Announcement

The Ramona Hillside Players are pleased to announce auditions for “Marvin’s Room”, Scott McPherson’s deeply moving and heartfelt drama. When Bessie, who has spent years caring for her ailing father and eccentric aunt, is diagnosed with leukemia, her estranged sister Lee and Lee’s troubled teenage son travel to Florida, forcing a family long divided by resentment to confront love, forgiveness, and the true meaning of family.

Filled with warmth, humor, and emotional honesty, Marvin’s Room reminds us that compassion, sacrifice, and human connection can flourish even in life’s most difficult moments, making it one of the modern American theater’s most touching family dramas.

Director – Rossi C. Smith.

Auditions

Auditions will take place on Monday Sept. 14th and Tuesday Sept 15th. Auditions are from 7 to 9 P.M. You can come anytime within the time slot. You will not need to stay the entire time. The doors will be open by 6:45, so come early if you wish. Please feel free to bring a resume and headshot, but these are not required.

The auditions will consist of “warm readings”. (you will be given reading material upon arrival and time to prepare what you want to do with it)

Callbacks will be on Wednesday. From 6:30 till 10 P.M. (if we run that late)

Auditions will be held at Ramona Hillside Theater.
27402 Ramona Bowl Road Hemet, CA 92544
(Please use the Girard St entrance. Columbia St has a closed gate.)
playersrhp@ramonahillsideplayers.org

Characters

Bessie (Female, 40-55) A warm, optimistic woman who has devoted her adult life to caring for her bedridden father and elderly aunt. Despite facing her own terminal illness, she possesses remarkable kindness, resilience, and emotional strength. Lee (Female, 35-55) Bessie’s estranged younger sister whose difficult past and emotional defenses have strained their relationship. Independent, outspoken, and often guarded, she slowly begins rediscovering the importance of family.

Hank (Male, 16-20) Lee’s intelligent but emotionally troubled teenage son. Recently committed to a psychiatric hospital after setting fire to the family home, Hank is searching for understanding, identity, and hope.

Charlie (Male (but we’re open to gender bending), 10-17) Lee’s younger son. Easygoing, observant, and good-natured, Charlie often serves as a quiet source of humor and emotional balance within the family.

Ruth (Female, 65-85) Bessie’s elderly aunt, who spends much of her day fascinated by television. Though physically frail and occasionally absent-minded, she provides unexpected warmth and comic relief.

Dr. Wally (Male, 35-65) Bessie’s compassionate physician. Honest, reassuring, and deeply caring, he delivers difficult news with empathy while encouraging hope whenever possible.

Dr. Charlotte (Female, 35-55) A psychiatrist treating Hank. Intelligent, patient, and perceptive, she works to help him understand his emotions and rebuild his relationship with his family.

Bob (Male, 25-45) A friendly and enthusiastic employee at the local animal hospital. Kind-hearted and quirky, Bob provides several lighthearted moments while revealing the play’s appreciation for everyday human goodness.

Retirement Home Director (Any Gender, 30-70) The administrator of the retirement facility where Marvin resides. Professional, courteous, and efficient, this role helps illustrate the realities of long-term caregiving and aging.

Show Times

The show opens November 13th and runs for two weekends. Performances are Friday nights at 7:30 P.M. and Weekends days at 2:30 P.M.

The rehearsals schedule will likely be Monday thru Thursday nights and Saturdays.